Located in the heart of Northwest British Columbia, the Gitxsan Nation is a proud and resilient people whose history, culture, and stewardship of their traditional Lax'Yip territory stretches back countless generations. Guided by the Gitxsan Ayookw (traditional laws), the Nation has maintained a deep connection to its lands, waters, and communities while continuing to build a strong vision for the future. It spans the basin and watersheds of the upper Skeena River, including the Kispiox, Bulkley, and Babine rivers, centering around the Hazelton, Terrace, and Smithers. Today, the Gitxsan are creating recent opportunities for economic growth and prosperity while remaining firmly grounded in their cultural values, governance traditions, and responsibilities to future generations.

Gitxsan Development Corporation (GDC) plays a central role in realizing that vision. Established to advance economic opportunities on behalf of the Gitxsan Nation, GDC is more than a collection of businesses. It is a vehicle for economic self-determination, community prosperity, and long-term nation building. Guided by the principle of being "a stitch in the blanket towards the Gitxsan Nation's economic independence," GDC works to create meaningful employment, develop local talent, generate sustainable revenues, and build business partnerships that create lasting benefits for Gitxsan members and communities.

Under the direction of the Board of Directors, the organization continues to advance a diverse range of initiatives designed to create economic benefits, employment opportunities, and long‑term value for the community while remaining grounded in Indigenous values, culture, and community priorities.

PURPOSE

To achieve long‑term economic independence, prosperity,



and self‑determination for the Gitxsan Nation through sustainable business development, strategic partnerships, and opportunities that honour Gitxsan laws, values, and stewardship of the land.

OUR COMMITMNENTS

The corporation is dedicated to:

- Economic independence for the Gitxsan Nation
- Sustainable economic growth and prosperity
- Job creation and training opportunities for Gitxsan people
- Balancing economic opportunity with stewardship of Gitxsan Lax Yip (traditional territory)
- Operating in accordance with Gitxsan Ayookw (traditional laws and governance principles)
- Building prosperity for current and future generations

GUIDING PRINCIPALS

Community Prosperity – Commitment to creating economic opportunities that support the long‑term well‑being and prosperity of Gitxsan Nation Members.

Sustainability – Focus on responsible development that balances economic success with environmental stewardship and respect for future generations.

Partnership & Collaboration – Building strong relationships with community members, governments, industry partners, neighbouring First Nations, and stakeholders to achieve shared success.

Innovation & Growth – Pursuing new business opportunities, creative solutions, and continuous improvement to strengthen economic self‑sufficiency and community resilience.





Respect for Culture and Values – Ensuring all economic development initiatives honour and reflect the culture, traditions, and aspirations of the Gitxsan Nation.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Reporting directly to the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is responsible for providing the strategic, operational, financial, and cultural leadership required to guide GDC through its next stage of growth, opportunity, and long‑term community impact.

The CEO will work closely with the Board, Gitxsan leadership, subsidiary managers, staff, community members, partners, and external stakeholders to execute strategic priorities, evaluate and advance new business opportunities, strengthen existing operations, and ensure the organization remains accountable to its mandate, governance framework, and community objectives.

As the senior leader of the organization, the CEO will be responsible for fostering a strong, transparent, and productive relationship with the Board of Directors. This includes providing regular and meaningful updates on organizational performance, financial results, strategic initiatives, risks, and emerging opportunities, while ensuring the Board is equipped with the information required to make informed decisions. Success in the role will require disciplined governance practices, clear communication, sound judgement, and a commitment to accountability and transparency.

The CEO will oversee a diverse portfolio of business interests and subsidiaries, ensuring strong financial stewardship, operational performance, risk management, and alignment with GDC's long‑term strategic vision.

The CEO will support the Board in advancing sustainable economic development opportunities that c

📌 Chief Executive Officer (Smithers)
🏢 Gitxsan Development
📍 Smithers